Father, Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do: Meditations on the First Word from the Cross

"Father, Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do." (Luke 23:34)

Meditations on the First Word from the Cross by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

"The perfectly sized meditation book (5.5 x 8.5") for use at home or church." (Special 'JMJ' Edition)

For years, Archbishop Sheen gave a series of powerful presentations on Christ's Passion and His seven last words from the Cross. As a Scripture scholar, Archbishop Sheen knew full well the power contained in preaching Christ crucified. With St. Paul, he could say, "For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified" (1 Cor. 2:2).

This anthology has been arranged to provide nine unique reflections for study and meditation on the words "Father, Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do." (Luke 23:34)

These meditations are taken from several books and articles written by Sheen between 1933 and 1945.

The Seven Last Words (New York: Century, 1933)

The Seven Last Words and the Our Father (Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor 1935)

Calvary and the Mass (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1936)

The Cross and the Beatitudes (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1937)

The Rainbow of Sorrow (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1938)

Victory over Vice (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1939)

The Seven Virtues (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1940)

Seven Words to the Cross (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1944)

Seven Words of Jesus and Mary (New York: P. J. Kenedy and Sons, 1945)

Each meditation will offer the reader a mini-retreat on the following topics.

First Meditation - A reflection on the words "Father, Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do".

Second Meditation - A reflection on a passage from the Lord's Prayer. (Our Father Who Art In Heaven)

Third Meditation - A reflection on a part of the Mass (The Confiteor).

Fourth Meditation - A reflection on one of the Beatitudes (Blessed are the Meek).

Fifth Meditation - A reflection about sorrow and unjust suffering.

Sixth Meditation - A reflection addressing one of the seven deadly sins (Anger).

Seventh Meditation - A reflection on the virtues (Fortitude).

Eighth Meditation - A reflection on dealing with individuals who reject the Church and Christ's teachings (A word to Humanists).

Ninth Meditation - A reflection on the unity of Jesus and Mary and the "Value Of Ignorance".